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[TR] Spit: brake caliper sticking

To: TRIUMPHS@autox.team.net
Subject: [TR] Spit: brake caliper sticking
From: Tim Gaines <mtgaines@mail.presby.edu>
Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2006 10:39:59 -0400
Here is another question, this time for the brake experts.  I have 
been trying to eliminate the drag I am getting from the front 
calipers on my 1980 Spitfire.  At first it just showed up as a lot of 
black dust on the wheels from the wearing brake pads.  I replaced the 
pads with the semi-metallic type.  Then there was a noticeable drag. 
After letting the car sit most of the summer (while working on the 
TR6) I replaced the rubber lines all around (as I had been planning 
to do for over a year), but that didn't help.  Recently I removed the 
pads, with difficulty, and pulled off the calipers (still connected 
to the brake lines).  I then stuck a block between the pistons and 
used the brake pedal to force them out pretty far without unseating 
them entirely.  One piston on each wheel required more force than the 
other before it moved.  Then I forced the pistons back with a 
C-clamp, and again one on each wheel was very difficult to move.  I 
moved them out and in one more time, replaced the pads, mounted the 
wheels, went for a drive, and find that I now seem to have drag only 
on one wheel.  Should I just try the same procedure again, or do I 
need to replace the pistons?  I was thinking that the long "rest" 
during the summer had resulted in the sticking and that I could just 
work it out.  What do you think?

Thanks,
Tim

1980 Spitfire
1974 TR6


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